Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving comfort food but looking for something a little more exciting than takeout? Then get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight meal: Chicken Parm Calzone! This recipe takes all the deliciousness of classic chicken parmesan and wraps it up in a warm, gooey calzone – it's a flavor explosion in every bite! It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick dinner, and satisfying enough to impress even the pickiest eaters. This is homemade cooking at its best, offering a delicious and healthy meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
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For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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For the Filling:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Add olive oil to the dough and knead for another minute.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Assembling and Baking the Calzones:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each half into a 10-inch circle.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over each circle, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Top with shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative finish.
- Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Chicken Parm Calzones immediately. A simple side salad adds a fresh counterpoint to the richness of the calzone. For extra flavor, consider a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Tips and Variations:
- For a quicker meal: Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts from scratch.
- Add some spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the filling for a little kick.
- Veggie boost: Add some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling.
- Cheese lovers rejoice: Experiment with different cheeses! Provolone, ricotta, or a blend of Italian cheeses would be delicious additions.
- Make it ahead: The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and relatively healthy option compared to many other comfort food choices. Enjoy your delicious and easy Chicken Parm Calzone!